Black Country satellite clubs partnership event being held in Oldbury

SUCCESSFUL partnerships between sports clubs and Black Country schools are being showcased at a Sport UK backed event in Oldbury next week.

Sports clubs have been encouraged to set up satellite clubs in schools to encourage youngsters to get involved in sport and become fitter.

The Black Country Be Active Partnership event at Portway Lifestyle Centre on Tuesday is open to school representatives, athletes, coaches, clubs and volunteers.

Black Country Consortium sports officer Joanne Taylor said: "There are some fantastic local examples of satellite clubs working well schools including Oldbury Academy and Warley Rugby Club linking up and Widsor Academy's work with the Watersports Centre.

"By 2017, every secondary school in England will have been offered a satellite sports blub on its site and will have a direct link to one or more national governing body of sport, dependent on the clubs in the area."

She added: "The main aim is to help grow the number of 11-25 year olds taking part in sport for at least 30 minutes every week, as well as reducing the number of young people dropping out of sport."

Chairman of the Black Country Satellite Club Strategic Group Richard Callicott OBE will be at the event discussing the progress needed for a better sporting future.

Mr Callicott, also a director of the British Paralympic Association, said: "The launch will also provide an opportunity for schools and clubs to hear about the benefits of this exciting programme for both young people and for the development of sport across the Black Country."

The event at Portway Lifestyle Centre, runs from 11.30am until 2.00pm and for more information visit www.blackcountrybeactive.co.uk.